23 October 2003 San Jose, CA Lightwave -- New Focus Inc. recently introduced the Model TLB-390X continuous-wave (CW) distributed-feedback (DFB) tunable laser, which combines the reliable performance of DFBs with mode-hope-free tunability.
The lasers provide stable, high output powers (up to 20 mW) over the entire C-band from 1529 nm to 1563 nm, without the use of semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs). Their narrow 3-MHz linewidths, ± 1.5-GHz wavelength accuracies, and excellent residual intensity noise (RIN) of 145 dB/Hz make them ideal for testing a wide variety of DWDM systems, say company representatives.
The benchtop instrument includes an integrated wavelength locker for 25-GHz channel spacing or higher, built-in digital signal processor (DSP) and control electronics, a simple serial electrical interface, and a uniquely stable and reliable design that includes a built-in thermo-electric (TEC) cooler. The compact devices have ± 0.5-dB power variation (over wavelength and temperature), 2-s wavelength switching speeds, high side-mode suppression ratios of 50 dB and optical isolations of 30 dB. Proprietary packaging technology has enabled the Model TLB-390X tunable lasers to deliver high powers, stability, reliability, and ease of use in a highly efficient, compact, low-power dissipation instrument, contends the company. The output fiber is Fujikura Panda PM with FC/PC R-type connector.